Story perspectives

Senate Passes Bill to End Shutdown, Sparks Controversy

11/12/2025

23 2

Summary

Story summary

The legislation aims to end the longest U.S. government shutdown and allow eight Republican senators to sue the Justice Department for privacy violations related to Jan. 6.
The Senate-passed bill would let these senators seek $500,000 per violation if their phone records were subpoenaed without disclosure.
Critics, including Democrats, say the bill creates taxpayer-funded payouts for Republicans.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune inserted the provision, drawing scrutiny for bipartisan consultation.

1 of 1

Story summary

The legislation aims to end the longest U.S. government shutdown and allow eight Republican senators to sue the Justice Department for privacy violations related to Jan. 6.
The Senate-passed bill would let these senators seek $500,000 per violation if their phone records were subpoenaed without disclosure.
Critics, including Democrats, say the bill creates taxpayer-funded payouts for Republicans.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune inserted the provision, drawing scrutiny for bipartisan consultation.